Roosters defeat Knights by one point to claim NRL grand-final victory

The Sydney Roosters defeated the Newcastle Knights 19-18 in the NRL men’s grand final, with veteran halfback Daly Cherry-Evans kicking the decisive field goal. The result ended Newcastle’s run to its first men’s decider in 25 years. The Knights had entered the final as an undermanned and less-favoured team whose progress had become the central storyline of the week.

The Roosters, by contrast, were portrayed as one of the competition’s wealthier and more successful clubs. They had reached eight men’s grand finals in the previous 25 years and won five premierships during that period. Cherry-Evans was signed by the Roosters to provide experience and quality.

He delivered that contribution in the final, taking responsibility for the late kick that settled the one-point match. After the victory, he told Channel Nine that the achievement was about his teammates and family as well as himself. The premiership was his second, following his first title with Manly in his debut season in 2011.

At 37, Cherry-Evans became the oldest NRL grand-finalist and oldest premiership winner, according to the supplied report. His move to the Roosters had made him a polarising figure among supporters, particularly because of his long association with Manly. The article also highlighted the contrasting narratives surrounding the teams.

Newcastle represented a traditional rugby-league heartland, while the Roosters were associated with substantial resources and a strong record of recruiting established players. However, the Roosters’ success also reflected contributions from players who had faced serious setbacks. Centres Rob Toia and Billy Smith had endured multiple injuries, while Angus Crichton had dealt with significant personal struggles and a severe hand injury during his career.

The Roosters’ victory followed their women’s team winning the NRLW premiership, completing a title double for the club.